News Release

US Department of Labor announces $6.3 million grant to assist workers in Iowa affected by food industry layoffs

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $6,255,784grant to assist about 800 workers affected by layoffs at John Morrell and Co. as well as four secondarily-affected companies, all located in Sioux City, Iowa.

"Today's grant will help Iowans receive the re-training and re-employment skills necessary to find new jobs in emerging industries," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis.

Awarded to Iowa Workforce Development, this grant will be operated by the Community Action Agency of Siouxland and Job Training Partners. The grant will provide affected workers with access to dislocated worker services. These services may include skills assessment, basic skills training, individual career counseling and occupational skills training.

Of the $6,255,784announced today, $3,703,681 will be released initially. Additional funding up to the amount approved will be made available as the state demonstrates a continued need for assistance.

National Emergency Grants are part of the secretary of labor's discretionary fund and are awarded based on a state's ability to meet specific guidelines. For more information, visit http://www.doleta.gov/NEG/.